The United Kingdom is set to increase immigration and nationality fees across multiple categories starting April 8, 2026. The changes, announced by the Home Office, will apply to visa applications, settlement processes, and employer sponsorship licences.
Why are fees being increased?
Most charges are being raised by around 6–7 percent, with the government linking the revision to inflation. The move also reflects a broader policy direction where individuals and employers are expected to shoulder a greater share of immigration-related costs. This follows earlier hikes in 2025, including increases to the Immigration Skills Charge and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Who will be affected?
The revised fee structure will impact a wide range of applicants, including:
* Workers applying under Skilled Worker routes
* Students and short-term visitors
* Individuals seeking permanent residency or citizenship
* Employers sponsoring overseas talent
What are the key changes in visa fees?
Several major visa categories will see moderate increases:
* Skilled Worker visa (up to 3 years): £769 → £819
* Skilled Worker visa (over 3 years): £1,519 → £1,618
* Student visa: £524 → £558
* Visitor visa (6 months): £127 → £135
For applicants already in the UK:
* Skilled Worker (up to 3 years): £885 → £943
* Skilled Worker (over 3 years): £1,751 → £1,865
* Indefinite Leave to Remain: £3,029 → £3,226
**What about employer and travel-related costs?**
Employers and travellers will also face higher charges:
* Sponsor licence (large sponsors): £1,579 → £1,682
* Sponsor licence (small sponsors): £574 → £611
* Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): £16 → £20
Other notable changes
* Health and Care visa (up to 3 years): £304 → £324
* Health and Care visa (over 3 years): £590 → £628
* Temporary work routes (including India Young Professionals Scheme): £319 → £340
* Naturalisation: £1,605 → £1,709
* Child citizenship registration: reduced from £1,214 to £1,000
What does this mean overall?
While individual increases are described as moderate, the cumulative effect of repeated fee hikes is likely to make moving to and hiring in the UK more expensive. This could impact both international applicants and employers relying on global talent.